Exploring Oaxaca’s Artisanal Heart: A Closer Look at the San Agustín Etla Quesillo & Papermaking Tour
Travelers seeking a taste of Oaxaca beyond the usual tourist spots will find this 4.5-hour tour offers a fascinating peek into the region’s time-honored crafts. From the lush fibers used in handmade paper to the creamy, signature Quesillo cheese, this experience touches on two iconic local industries, with a sprinkle of history and local flavor.
What makes this tour stand out? For starters, you’ll get an up-close view of traditional papermaking using natural fibers, which is both educational and visually striking. Second, the chance to visit the Arts Center of St. Augustine, a beautifully restored textile factory turned modern art space, adds cultural depth.
That said, a potential hitch is the inconsistency some reviews mention—like arriving and finding the paper factory staff already gone, which can be frustrating if you’re eager to see the process in action. Still, the overall experience offers a genuine look at Oaxacan craftsmanship that most travelers will appreciate, particularly those interested in artisanal history or food.
If you love discovering authentic local industries, enjoy engaging guides, and don’t mind a moderate travel distance from Oaxaca City, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want a mix of hands-on learning, cultural insights, and delicious food.
Key Points
- Authentic craftsmanship: Learn how traditional paper and Quesillo cheese are made using age-old methods.
- Historic sites: The Arts Center of St. Augustine offers a beautifully renovated industrial space with cultural exhibitions.
- Local flavor: Sampling and understanding the process of Oaxaca’s famous cheese adds a culinary dimension.
- Expert guides: Most reviews highlight knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the experience.
- Flexible logistics: Air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup make the trip comfortable.
- Value for money: At $41, it’s a reasonably priced way to explore two significant local crafts with some added sightseeing.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
Starting from your Oaxaca hotel, the tour kicks off with a comfortable, air-conditioned ride about 20 kilometers north to the Etla District. This part of the valley is a hub for traditional production, and the journey itself offers a glimpse of the local landscape—lush, vibrant, and dotted with small villages.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Oaxaca State.
The Paper-Making Workshop
The first stop is a former hydroelectric plant in San Agustín Etla. Here, a community preserves the art of handmade paper, drawing on natural fibers like tree bark, flowers, cotton, and even locally sourced pigments. The process involves stripping fibers, soaking, pounding, and then flattening them into sheets—an intricate craft that has sustained local communities for generations.
Many visitors appreciate the visual appeal of seeing raw materials transformed into delicate paper that can be used for art, stationery, or crafts. However, some reviews note that the staff has often left before visitors arrive, meaning the live demonstration might not always happen. We loved the opportunity to learn about the regional fibers and their ecological significance, but if seeing the process in action is a priority, it’s worth verifying ahead.
The Arts Center of St. Augustine
Next, you’ll visit the Arts Center of St. Augustine, housed in a beautifully renovated textile factory dating back to 1883. This building once produced raw cotton blankets and now serves as a contemporary space for art exhibitions and cultural events.
Walking through its spacious halls, you’ll see how industrial architecture meets modern ecological design—a striking contrast that makes for excellent photo opportunities. Many visitors find the art displays thought-provoking, and the space offers a quiet, inspiring environment. It’s a reminder of Oaxaca’s history as a center for textile production, now reimagined through art.
The Quesillo and Market Visit
The final stop takes you to a local producer of Quesillo, often called Oaxaca’s string cheese. This cheese has been a staple here for generations, known for its soft, elastic texture and mild, yet distinctive flavor. Watching the cheese being made is a treat, and most reviews agree that the hospitality of the producers shines through.
One reviewer described the visit as “delicious” and appreciated the personal touch, as they saw the process from start to finish. You’ll learn how the cheese is made, why it’s so integral to Oaxacan cuisine, and how it pairs perfectly with local tortillas and salsas.
After the cheese visit, you’ll head to the Etla market, a lively spot where you can see Quesillo in its natural setting among the local produce and food stalls. It’s an excellent chance to soak in daily life and pick up some souvenirs or snacks.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Practicalities: What to Expect
Transportation is smooth and comfortable, with air conditioning and hotel pickup included, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport. The guide is bilingual (Spanish and English), making the explanations accessible to a wide audience. Most reviewers praise their guides for being knowledgeable and attentive, which significantly enhances the experience.
The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, which is enough time to get a meaningful look at each site without feeling rushed. The cost of $41 per person is quite reasonable considering the range of activities and insights gained, though some extras—like the Quesillo class ($7) and paper factory entrance ($2.20)—are optional and paid upon arrival.
A couple of reviews mention that the visit to the paper factory can be inconsistent—sometimes the staff is absent, which can be disappointing for those eager to see the process firsthand. If you’re especially interested in the craft, consider asking your guide about the day’s schedule or confirming availability beforehand.
Weather considerations: Bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses) and cash for small purchases or tips. The tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as some sites involve uneven terrain or limited accessibility.
Authenticity and Value
One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is its focus on authentic local industries—not just sightseeing but genuine participation and learning. The cheese-making experience, in particular, receives high praise for its hospitality and delicious outcome. The visit to the arts center provides cultural context and modern relevance, connecting Oaxaca’s past with its vibrant contemporary art scene.
Reviewers repeatedly mention friendly guides and delicious food, emphasizing that the personal touches make the experience memorable. The price point aligns well with the quality, especially as it includes transportation, a guide, and multiple notable stops.
However, the inconsistencies in the papermaking demonstration can be a minor drawback. If you’re a dedicated craft enthusiast, you may want to manage expectations or inquire upfront about the schedule.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for art lovers, foodies, and curious travelers who want an authentic taste of Oaxaca’s craftsmanship. It suits those who enjoy learning through direct observation and appreciate cultural history embedded in local industries. If you’re traveling with family or in a small group, the relaxed pace and engaging guides will make it a memorable outing.
It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility limitations or those seeking a highly interactive or live demonstration-oriented experience, unless you confirm arrangements beforehand.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a compelling look at two of Oaxaca’s most beloved artisanal products—handmade paper and Quesillo cheese—set against the backdrop of a historic textile factory and a vibrant local market. The combination of culinary discovery, historic architecture, and artistic culture makes it a well-rounded experience, especially for those eager to go beyond the tourist trail.
Most guests rave about the friendly guides and delicious food, which suggest that your hosts are genuinely invested in sharing their local heritage. While the inconsistency at the paper factory can be a minor annoyance, the overall value remains strong, particularly considering the price.
If you’re looking for an educational, authentic, and delightful way to spend half a day in Oaxaca, this tour checks many boxes—offering a window into the craftsmanship and culinary traditions that make Oaxaca a truly special place.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your central Oaxaca hotel, making logistics straightforward and comfortable.
How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4.5 hours, providing a good balance of sightseeing and learning without feeling rushed.
What’s the price?
The base price is $41 per person, with optional extras like the cheese-making class ($7) and paper factory entry ($2.20) paid on site.
Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users, as some sites have uneven terrain and limited accessibility.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses), comfortable clothes, and cash for souvenirs or tips.
Can I see the paper-making process in action?
That depends—some reviews mention that staff may leave before visitors arrive, so the demonstration isn’t guaranteed. It’s best to check ahead with the operator.